Definitions And Concepts Of Social Justice

By Shirley Anderson


People often interpret different public and private aspects of local, national and worldwide society differently. In most cases, these interpretations, often known as social justice, are considered to relate to the concept of just and fair practices between individuals and societies. Most often, the definition of which, is based on distribution of wealth, personal activity, social privilege, lifestyle and personal identity.

Current movements in this area now emphasize an importance on breaking different barriers, especially with regards to racial and economic inequality, social mobility and LGBTQ+ rights with regards to corporations and institutions which benefit individuals. Whereas, there are now conferences, programs and workshops related to the area being offered at a number of colleges and universities on an annual or semi-annual basis, of which most are open to the public such as the one held at Humboldt State University in Arcata, California.

These processes often include assuring that all individuals will receive the benefits of capitalism, corporatism and government provided benefits through a fair and equal distribution of wealth, labor laws, social insurance and taxation, public health care, schools and services and regulation of local markets. In most cases, the interpretation of these and other rights are mediated by cultural and ethical traditions. Whereas, all emphasize a move toward equality for all individuals and the proper use of power in positions of responsibility.

The practice of this type of justice is often invoked during philosophical debates and discussions related to local, regional, national and international history. In most cases, the differences include people whom are physically or developmentally disabled, the environment, immigration reform, racial and economic equality. Over the last several decades, LGBTQ+, and modified gender identity have become part and parcel to the overall movement.

In most cases, the social aspect of the justice system can be traced back to the theology of Augustine of Hippo and Thomas Paine's belief in philosophical ideologies and theories. Although, the term did not become used explicitly until the late 1700s. Whereas, it went on to be used repeatedly during the 1848 revolutions and on into the twentieth century in which the term gained more popularity.

While research shows that the term dates back to the No 7 Federalist Papers in which it was used for the first time in print, it actually dates back to long before the 1700s. Although, it was not until the late industrial period when Americans began using the term on a regular basis. After which, the phrase began appearing in a number of law suits and educational materials at colleges and universities around the world.

Towards the end of the industrial revolution, more progressive scholars in America began using the term more frequently. Once the phrase was used to establish the International Labor Organization, it became more well known on a worldwide basis. Then, the term spread rapidly, with different countries and languages providing different definitions, concepts and meanings.

Newer research has confirmed that while previously a Jesuit priest had been recognized for coining the term, it is actually much older. For, while there is no certainty, it appears to date back to the days of the first Buddha and the concept of Enlightenment. While this makes sense, there is no way to know for sure when the term was coined though most believe it was well before 1748.




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